VDU operator requirements for office chairs

Buying the right office chair for the application is vital to ensure the long term comfort and well being of employees in the workplace.

Office chairs should be user adjustable for

• Seat back height and tilt adjustment
• Seat height adjustment
• 5 star base with topped with a swivel mechanism

Extra features

Adjustable seat slides help increase the seat depth from the front of the seat cushion to the back rest, this is often essential for taller people.
Adjustable lumber support helps support the lower back
Independent swivel chair actions, adjust seat cushion angle and back rake independently.
Fold away chair arms, these enable users to get close enough to the desk.

You should check controls are working on the office chairs provided and that the operator knows how the adjustable features work.

General guidelines are

1. Is the small of the back in contact with the office chairs back rest?
   The user should have a straight back supported by the office chairs back rest with relaxed shoulders.
2. Are the user's eyes at roughly the same height as the top of the VDU and forearms horizontal? You should adjust the office chairs height to get the users forearms in the correct position and then adjust the VDU height, an adjustable screen bracket or mount can help
3. Are the user's feet flat on the floor without to much pressure on the backs of the legs? A foot rest or and adjust able seat tilt may be needed

The operator should be able to carry out their work sitting comfortably. You should consider training users in how to adopt suitable postures while working.

Chair arms can stop users getting close enough to use equipment comfortable so consider adjustable arms or fold away arms.

An excellent resource and check list for VDU operators can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg36.pdf

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